CRISPR-Cas9: A Revolutionary Approach in Gene Therapy for HIV treatment

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection represents a global public health challenge, affecting millions and creating significant impacts. Despite advancements in antiretroviral treatments that turn HIV into a chronic disease, eradicating the virus from cellular reservoirs remains a challenge. This study proposes CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing as an innovative strategy to eliminate HIV at the genetic level. The ablation of CCR5 and CXCR4 coreceptors in CD4+ immune cells were explored using CRISPR-Cas9, aiming to disrupt HIV entry and viral replication. Additionally, LASER ART therapy was applied in humanized animal models to maintain viral suppression in combination with genetic editing, allowing for an assessment of its impact on eliminating viral reservoirs and restoring the CD4+ cell population. The efficacy and safety of these strategies were also evaluated through in vitro assays and in murine models. The results demonstrated successful modification of 55% in CCR5 and 36% in CXCR4, providing resistance to HIV-1 strains. The combined LASER ART and CRISPR therapy showed a 58% elimination of proviral DNA in treated mice, suggesting a promising strategy to achieve a cure. The editing and ablation of CCR5 and CXCR4 represent an innovative therapeutic approach with significant potential for eradicating HIV-1, offering new perspectives for the treatment of this disease.